ith a name inspired by the curvaceous domes of Renaissance architecture, the new Rado LaCoupole is the epitome of design elegance, with a distinctive, flowing aesthetic that positions it not just as a watch, but a piece of jewellery.

This latest update to the LaCoupole family of timepieces, first launched in 1987, has been reimagined to truly exemplify the Italianate cupolas referenced by its name, thanks to an impressive edge-to-edge spherical-form sapphire crystal that is undoubtedly its standout feature.

Like a section cut from a glass ball, the crystal curves in two orientations, as well as inside and out. In addition to being technically difficult to make, the way it covers the full face of the watch lends the piece a distinctly sculptural quality, elevating a functional component to a dramatic design statement.

That’s all the more apparent with the metallised finish around the edge of the crystal. It is accomplished thanks to a complicated process involving vaporised metal and photolithography, but what you need to know is that it results in a particularly alluring look, guaranteed to stir curiosity.

The case of the new Rado LaCoupole has been upgraded, from stainless steel to high-tech ceramic, and the bracelet is now also constructed from high-tech ceramic components, paired with decorative steel elements. The way the case seems to float within the bracelet adds to the structural feel of the piece, like the columns that support the domes and arches of Italy’s greatest buildings.

In the dial, lacquer-filled wave markings radiate out from the centre, drawing the eye to 11 diamond indexes (a date window at 6 o’clock takes up the twelfth position). The precious status of these gemstones is confirmed by the word ‘jubilé’, printed above the date window, while a faceted crown mimics the dial markings. With a case diameter of 31mm, this is a watch for smaller wrists and all those who appreciate watchmaking as jewellery.

There are four expressions of this work of art. First, a classic combination of black and silver, with polished black high-tech ceramic complemented by metallised bands of black and silver, polished stainless steel decorative elements and rhodium-coloured hands. Next, the sleek grey of Rado’s polished plasma high- tech ceramic is paired with metallised plasma and rose gold, with further matching embellishments.

Then there’s a polished brown variant, with rich brown and rose gold metallisation, and a gleaming white option featuring a standout rose gold metallised band. Both have additional rose gold decorative elements.

Each variant is opulent in its own way – it all depends on how you like to complement or contrast your skin tone, your hair, your outfit... But its beauty is more than skin-deep. The Rado LaCoupole is also unbelievably lightweight and comfortable, courtesy of its high-tech ceramic construction. It’s also a remarkably scratch-resistant material – as is its sapphire crystal. Inside, it is powered by a Rado calibre R218 quartz PreciDrive movement, offering astounding accuracy, precise to +/- 10 seconds in every year.

This beautiful collection blends Rado heritage with modern innovations that symbolise the art of 21st-century Swiss watchmaking, just as you should expect from the Master of Materials.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Movement

• Rado calibre R218, quartz, 8 jewels, 3 hands, date at 6 o’clock, PreciDrive

Dimensions

• 31.0 x 35.5 x 8.4 (W x L x H in mm)

Case

• Polished black high-tech ceramic case, polished and sandblasted stainless steel case back, polished stainless steel crown decorated with facets, domed spherical sapphire crystal, bonded to the high-tech ceramic case, water resistant to 5 bar (50 metres)

Metallisation

• Black, silver

Dial

• Wave-shaped and lacquered with opulent effect, jubilé, 11 diamonds, 110/115, Top Wesselton, VS-SI G, full cut, 0.061 carat, silver-printed Rado and jubilé logo

Hands

• Rhodium-coloured

Bracelet

• Polished black high-tech ceramic with polished, decorative stainless steel elements, polished stainless steel 3-fold clasp